False payment was the most common digital crime in Brazil in 2024, accounting for 46% of fraud in online purchases and R$ 1.61 billion in losses, according to a market research conducted by OLX, the largest classifieds marketplace for used products in the country.
Also known as the Approved Purchase scam, it occurs when the criminal poses as a buyer and sends a fake deposit slip via email or messaging app, making the victim believe that the negotiation amount has been paid. Once the item is in hand, the scammer stops responding, and by the time the seller realizes the loss, it is too late to reverse the situation.
“To avoid this type of fraud, we recommend that the item be delivered only after the deposit confirmation in a bank account or digital wallet. In the case of OLX, we offer OLX Guarantee, a 100% online and free service that allows transactions directly through the platform, providing more security for both the buyer and the seller. With it, products can be sold in installments, without the need to hire a delivery service outside the platform, and receive payment upfront within 48 hours after the delivery confirmation”, explains Camila Braga, product manager at OLX Group.
Be aware of the following signs:
- Pressure to send the item as quickly as possible. Urgency is a common tool used by fraudsters, as it requires quick responses, without time for reflection;
- Request for unnecessary additional information, such as photos of documents like ID, driver’s license, bank details, or even the credit card, claiming it is a security step on the site;
- Additional payment requirement, whether for product delivery, order cancellation, or even for receiving the amount in the account. This is just another way to make the scam even more advantageous.
If fraud is suspected, immediately interrupt the negotiation and use the available reporting channels on the platforms. Currently, most of them have buttons that can be activated at any time. In the case of OLX, for example, there are buttons available both in the ads and in the chat. ‘Recording suspicious activities contributes to a more reliable and secure digital environment not only for those reporting, but for all users,’ emphasizes Camila.
